A big part of why the Kaw & Suz got out of importing their full-size 2str's has to do with several issues, the main one being the economy tanking (Suzuki dirtbike sales prior to the Recession/Depression was over 7% of all Suzuki sales in North America (including cars!), now it's less then 3%). With shrinking expendable income with US consumers, less riding areas especially trail-wise, EPA stricter requirements on off-road only bikes being equipped with head/tail-lights being approved for sale state-side (only a small percentage of total volume per manufacture imported allowed state-side), California CARB green/red sticker regulations (where the Big 4 headquarters their US operations) and their affect on product imports to the rest of the country, the shift in MX to 4str product and the every niche possible/ small market share of bikes filled by KTM altered the current offerings from the Big 4. At the sametime, the continued poor economy, inflation & poor exchange rates, the stagnating wages has pushed back the 4str on-slaught and have some manufactures rethinking full-size 2str's again. Truth be told, most people can't commit or rationalize to purchasing a $8-10k racebike/recreation bike when just 6-7 years ago pricing ran closer to $5-6k. I know I have yet to spend over $5k on a new racebike (purchased all of mine new except the 500 for the '04 KX250 hybrid). At the Big 4, it's really the "Bean Counters" who dictate product regardless of what the racing department or development want.
